Expeditions:Fiji

Cradled in the middle of the South Pacific, nearly 1,000 miles north of New Zealand, Fiji is an archipelago of over 300 islands. Not only does Fiji boast lush tropical vegetation and towering mountainous landscapes along with an undersea paradise, but is also filled with a rich cultural history and generous, friendly, and welcoming locals.

When I first started exploring the breathtaking reefs of Fiji, I took for granted these untouched reefs as a place far off the beaten path and far from the destructive habits of humans. But how quickly that has changed over the past 30 years. Now, increasing coastal development, overfishing, and unsustainable tourism threatens coral reefs. On a larger sense, global climate change due to human emission of carbon dioxide is a major threat to corals and prolonged periods of high temperatures cause them to loose their symbiotic algae, which can kill corals, in a processes called coral bleaching.

One of my favorite places on the planet, Fiji is where our team and I created the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Fiji, dedicated to the protection of the natural pristine environment by engaging guests in environmentally conscious practices that strengthen the environment and the surrounding local community. It is also home to Jean-Michel Cousteau Diving, Fiji, that offers guests unparalleled access to some of the world’s most spectacular seascapes.

State of Fiji

• Destructive fishing practices harm underwater ecosystems and damage the health of the coral reef communities.
• Pollution from coastal development, sewage and agriculture reaches the marine environment and can damage sensitive corals and upset the entire ecosystem.
• Unsustainable tourism can negatively impact coral reefs and local people. Learn more about Ecotourism and how it serves to enhance natural ecosystems and improve local communities.

The Fiji Expedition Team

Learn more about our work in Fiji

• Learn how Jean-Michel has worked with local villages to establish Namena Marine Reserve in Protecting Fiji’s Beautiful Seas.
• Read about the success in sustainable ecotourism featuring Fiji in our blog: Destination Diving Meets Ecotourism.
• Read about Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Award for Fiji Islands Resort.
• Watch the trailer for Jean-Michel Cousteau’s IMAX film Secret Ocean 3D and find out what IMAX Theaters it’s showing around the world.

Quick Facts

• Fiji is considered the soft coral capital of the world.
• In Fijian Villages, the chief must welcome newcomers into the village through performing a special welcoming ceremony.
• The international date line runs through Fiji.
• The official languages of Fiji include English, Fijian and Hindustani.

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